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Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Drottningholm Palace Summary
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| Public website: | www.kungligaslotten.se |
Sweden – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Swedish Krona (SEK) £1 ≈ SEK 13.23 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
Sweden is one of the most cashless countries in the world. Nearly all transactions are conducted through digital means, with credit cards and mobile payments being standard. Cash is rarely used.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is optional in Sweden but appreciated. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip is customary. Taxi drivers expect a small tip or rounding up the fare, while hotel staff may appreciate a small tip for services. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is allowed in Sweden in designated areas, especially during festivals and in outdoor events. However, drinking in public spaces such as streets and parks may be restricted. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is banned indoors in public places, including restaurants, bars, and public transport. Designated smoking areas are available in many public spaces. |
| Midsummer (June) |
One of the most important holidays, with celebrations, festivals, and outdoor activities, expect crowded areas and increased travel. |
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| Christmas (December) |
Christmas celebrations with markets and events, expect higher prices and crowded cities. |
| Swedish National Day (June) |
A national holiday with celebrations, parades, and festivals, particularly in Stockholm. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Uber, Bolt |
| Other: | Sweden is known for its beautiful landscapes, from the Northern Lights in Lapland to the archipelagos. Be prepared for cold winters, especially if you plan to visit during the winter months. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Drottningholm Palace, Sweden
Palace open daily May to September, weekends only in other months; Royal Court Theatre tours run in summer
Boats from Stockholm City Hall to Drottningholm run only May to September
Don't miss
- 🏰 Tour the royal apartments and ornate halls
- 🌳 Stroll through the palace gardens' hidden paths
- ⚔️ Explore the historic armory museum inside
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Drottningholm Palace stands as a remarkable example of Swedish royal history. Built in the 17th century it showcases classic architecture with elegant gardens and well-preserved interiors. Visitors can explore rooms filled with original furniture and artwork that tell stories of past monarchs. The palace remains active as a residence for the royal family making each visit feel connected to ongoing traditions.
The surrounding grounds include beautiful formal gardens designed in French style. Pathways lead through manicured lawns and flowerbeds where seasonal blooms create colorful displays. A small theater on site hosts performances that reflect Sweden’s cultural heritage. Nearby water channels add to the serene atmosphere inviting leisurely walks along quiet docks.
History buffs find fascinating details in Drottningholm’s museum spaces. Exhibits explain how the palace evolved over centuries adapting to changing tastes and needs. Guided tours provide insight into daily life at court including stories about royal children and household staff. The site also includes a Chinese Pavilion which highlights 18th-century fascination with Asian design.
Travelers appreciate that Drottningholm is accessible from Stockholm by train or boat making day trips practical. The palace welcomes visitors year-round though spring and summer bring extra activity as gardens flourish. Entry fees support ongoing preservation ensuring the site stays well-maintained for future generations while offering an authentic look at Sweden’s royal past.
Why travel to Drottningholm Palace?
Knowledge before you go
- Arrive early; crowds peak after lunch and during guided tours.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the palace grounds include uneven cobblestones and multiple staircases.
- Check the official website for current opening hours and any temporary closures due to royal events or maintenance work.
- Explore the surrounding gardens before entering; they offer quiet spots for photos and a chance to see the palace’s architectural details from different angles.
How to travel to Drottningholm Palace
Drottningholm Palace is accessible via public transport from Stockholm, Sweden’s capital. The nearest train station is Stockholm‑Södra, from which visitors can take a regional train to Mariefred, followed by a bus or taxi to the palace grounds. Alternatively, guided tours often include transportation from central Stockholm. Private car travelers should note that parking is available near the palace entrance. Bicycle rentals are also an option for those exploring nearby areas. The site is reachable within approximately 45 minutes by train and bus combination, offering a scenic route along Lake Mälaren. Accessibility features include paved pathways and visitor facilities at key points.
Access summary
- From Stockholm Arlanda (ARN): Airport Express train to Stockholm Central (20 min); then commuter train to Solna (10 min).
- From Stockholm City: S-train to Solna (15 min) and bus 30 to Drottningholm Palace.
- By boat from Stockholm’s Old Town: 25‑minute ferry to Drottningholm Island.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay near Drottningholm Palace
Near Drottningholm Palace guests find a mix of boutique inns and family‑run guesthouses that emphasize historic charm and local character. Many accommodations feature period furnishings, garden terraces overlooking the palace grounds and complimentary breakfast with Swedish pastries. Prices range from mid‑range rooms at about €120 (£101.09) per night to luxury suites in heritage buildings for upwards of €250 (£210.60), reflecting the area’s reputation for elegant, well‑maintained lodging. The region is also known for its cozy “stuga” cottages, offering a rustic retreat with modern amenities and easy access to the palace’s walking paths. For travelers seeking convenience, several serviced apartments provide kitchenettes and free parking, making longer stays comfortable while staying close to the royal residence.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
Packing recommendations for Drottningholm Palace
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📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
🚰
Reusable water bottle
🍫
Energy snacks
☂️
Folding umbrella
🎒
Small rucksack
👛
Cash in small denominations
🧶
Light jumper
📕
Guidebook with offline map
🔋
Power bank
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in the region are around 8% higher than the average across United States. That means you'll spend more on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to SEK) is 4% better than in recent years. That means travelling now costs around the same compared to the past.
Safety information overview
General safety
Drottningholm Palace in Sweden is exceptionally safe for visitors. The area has low crime rates, well‑trained security staff and clear emergency procedures. Tourists should stay on marked paths, keep valuables secure and follow local guidelines for a worry‑free visit.
Accessibility
Drottningholm Palace offers excellent accessibility: wide, step‑free entrances, elevators and tactile signage. Wheelchair users can explore gardens and the main building comfortably. However, some older rooms lack ramps and guided tours may be limited for those needing extra assistance.
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